What Does a Home Warranty Cover? Home Warranty Policies
Home systems and appliances have a limited lifespan, and unexpected breakdowns can be expensive. A home warranty policy can provide financial relief by covering repair or replacement costs. We’ll guide you through important considerations before choosing a home warranty.
Owning a home comes with the responsibility of maintaining and protecting its various components. One way to safeguard your investment is through a home warranty. In this blog, we will delve into what a home warranty entails, the coverage it provides, what it doesn’t cover, its duration, associated costs, alternatives to consider, and the top home warranty providers in the industry
What Does a Home Warranty Cover?
Coverage Options: Home warranty companies offer plans with varying levels of coverage, including appliances-only, systems-only, or combination plans. These plans protect against damages caused by normal wear and tear, but specific exceptions and exclusions vary between plans.
Appliance Coverage: Commonly covered appliances include refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, and washers and dryers. Additional add-ons may be available for second appliances or costly amenities.
Systems Coverage: Home warranty plans often cover HVAC systems, plumbing systems, water heaters, electrical systems, garbage disposals, and built-in appliances. Coverage details may vary, so choose a plan that aligns with your specific needs.
What Doesn’t a Home Warranty Cover?
Limitations and Exclusions: Home warranty coverage is subject to certain limitations, such as pre-existing conditions, improper maintenance or installation, damage from pests, cosmetic issues, mismatched systems, and secondary damage resulting from appliance or system failure. Read the fine print to understand coverage exclusions.
Duration and Costs of Home Warranty Coverage
Coverage Duration: Home warranty coverage typically lasts for one year, starting from the date of purchase. Providers may offer extensions beyond the initial term, often for an additional fee. Coverage durations may vary for major systems or appliances.
Costs: The average annual cost of a home warranty ranges from $300 to $600. Service fees, add-ons, and extended coverages can add an extra $100 to $500 or more annually. Service fees usually range from $55 to $125 per claim.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Repair Process
Request Service: Easily initiate a service request either online or by phone.
Pay Service Fee: Upon initiating the request, you’ll be required to pay a Service Fee.
Professional Assignment: We will assign a qualified professional from our network to handle your repair.
Scheduling: The assigned professional will contact you to schedule a convenient visit time.
Alternatives and Home Warranty vs. Homeowners Insurance
Alternatives: Instead of a home warranty, homeowners can consider saving money for future repairs, hiring contractors directly, or accessing credit for payment flexibility.
Home Warranty vs. Homeowners Insurance: Home warranties are optional policies that cover internal systems and appliances against routine wear and tear. Homeowners insurance protects against major disasters or accidents but does not cover internal system or appliance failures.
Top Home Warranty Providers
Research and Rankings: Forbes Home has conducted extensive research to identify top home warranty companies, including AFC Home Club, American Home Shield, Cinch Home Services, ARW Home, and Liberty Home Guard. Contact providers to get cost estimates and confirm coverage availability in your area.
Conclusion
A home warranty can be a valuable investment for homeowners seeking financial protection against unexpected system and appliance failures. Understanding the coverage, duration, costs, and alternatives will help you make an informed decision. Consider your specific needs and explore reputable home warranty providers to find the best plan that aligns with your requirements and offers peace of mind for your home.